Our Common Humanity in the Information Age. Principles and Values for Development

SHARING AND OLYMPIC GAMES
Liston Bochette, Secretary General, World Olympic Association
Sharing is a fundamental element in the Olympic Games. Every four years athletes from 
all around the globe come together to not only participate in a friendly sports 
competition, but also to learn about one another and form life long friendships in the 
process. Sport provides a special setting where the differences among people are 
overlooked in favor of seeing the similarities among humanity. These friendships defy 
the stigmas of race, creed, or color. Athletes bond with each other through the mutual 
respect fostered by playing by the rules and seeking excellence in their lives. From the 
glow of the stadium lights, a partnership for a better world is forged among all 
Olympians. 

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128 | Our Common Humanity in the Information Age 
The first stage of this process comes through the teachers and coaches in school yards 
and play grounds. Young athletes learn through basic educational principles to enjoy the 
physical activities provided for them. Whether in organized ball games or simple foot 
races, young people learn to appreciate one another through participation. The second 
stage comes through established sports programs. Many youths learn the values of 
working together when they join a team effort. Here, they improve their physical and 
mental skills while practicing as a unit. The third stage comes about at the highest le vel 
of performance. Elite athletes demonstrate their refined abilities to achieve a specific 
goal. This means following a plan and being dedicated to see its outcome. These three 
stages produce Olympians.
Becoming an Olympian means more than going to the Olympic Games. An Olympian 
enters the stadium as an athlete but leaves as an ambassador of sport’s highest ideals. 
From the sixteen days in the Olympic Village and the years of preparation to get there, an 
athlete acquires a sense of social responsibility unlike any other. After the days of 
competition have passed, many Olympians care enough to return to their towns and 
villages to teach the next generation of aspiring youths. They also volunteer for 
community service projects, from environmental clean ups to combating domestic 
violence to promoting cultural programs. They rarely sit down and watch the world go 
by! Olympians accept a challenge and inspire others to do the same. They are some of 
today’s best role models by demonstrating personal responsibility and partnering for a 
common cause. 
The time it takes to turn a young athlete into an Olympian is an invaluable investment in 
a better world for everyone.